Awarded in the name of the Secretary of the Air Force and presented to any member of the United States military who, while serving in a capacity with the U.S. Air Force, distinguishes themselves by sustained meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flight. The achievements must be accomplished with distinction above and beyond that normally expected of professional airmen. The Aerial Achievement Medal may be approved by local commanders, however the missions for which the decoration is authorized must be approved by a Major Air Force Command. The award is intended to recognize the contributions of aircrew members who would, otherwise, not be qualified for the award of the Air Medal.